Homeschooling: The Teen Years: Your Complete Guide to Successfully Homeschooling the 13- to 18- Year-Old (Prima Home Learning Library)

The guide is neatly packaged and easy to read in the same style of its sister publications, Homeschooling: The Early Years and Homeschooling: The Middle Years. A large collection of lists and quick tips offer everything from the top 10 books for teens and the most popular math programs to money-saver suggestions such as joining a local college's foreign-language club and asking for discarded equipment from local schools. The last chapter contains two college application essays written by teenage homeschoolers. It also provides reassuring information about diplomas. Many universities follow Harvard's policy of not requiring a diploma, but if you or your homeschooling support group do issue one, your teenager can answer "yes" to the diploma question on most job applications--a fact sure to illicit a collective sigh of relief from thousands of parents who homeschool their teens. --Jodi Mailander Farrell

Two weeks ago I pulled my 12 year old, seventh grade student from public school on basically what was a spur of the moment, desperation move. Long story short, he has been on Ritalin for 4 years, has never enjoyed even one day of school (including kindergarten), had a 504 plan for passive A.D.D and writing/processing problems. I was tired of trying to get the teachers to cooperate, my son to do his homework after school, tears, low self-esteem and failing grades. I just knew there had to be a better way to help my son receive the education he deserves.

In just two short weeks, my son's behavior and personality are undergoing major changes. He is happier, less stressed, and for the first time -- willing to sit down and learn without the fear of failure. The greatest part of all is that he's no longer taking the Ritalin. I threw that away the day I pulled him from public school. Guess what? He's fine without it. I feel in my heart that this was the best decision I have ever made for my son.

I was scared, doubting myself and wondering why in the world did I think I could do this. Now I know I can do this, and do it better then the schools. Thank you for being there for me when I needed you most. Your book has become my inspiration and will continue to guide me through the high school years.

Thank you, Cafie Cohen, from the bottom of my heart!


A Must Have for Homeschooling Teens   September 18, 2001
Alice E. Eisele (Youngsville, NC USA)
65 out of 65 found this review helpful

I have been homeschooling for 11 years now and I must say this has been one of the most useful publications I have come across. I have already struggled through two teens with little help and not knowing where to turn for resources. There is a great deal of information for the younger years, but very little for teens. This book not only give you insightful information to make your teens education well rounded and interesting, but it also provides a wealth resources to turn for further information. No homeschool should be without it.


Best Homeschool Book Ever   May 11, 2000
Judy Trecartin (Boston, Massachusetts)
76 out of 77 found this review helpful

This is a great book for anyone homeschooling teenagers. In a wonderful, easy-to-read format, it discusses concerns of every family member -- mom and dad and teens and younger children. The author answers questions that new homeschoolers have, such as "How do we get legal?" and "Where do we find curriculum?" and "What about a diploma?" In addition the book contains a wealth of information for experienced home educators. Drawing not only on the author's years homeschooling her own children, but also on the experience of dozens of homeschooling families worldwide, this title contains an incredible number of fun, creative, practical, and money-saving suggestions for all subjects -- writing, foreign languages, advanced math, history, science, and so on. Based on a survey results compiled by the author, you will find lists throughout of homeschoolers' favorites -- from software to historical videos to authors teens love. One chapter discusses part-time homeschooling and afterschooling, that is, using homeschooling resources and approaches with schooled children. This is perfect for those families who want to use tried-and-true homeschooling resources to improve their child's math abilities or to enrich their teen's school history curriculum. Afterschooling offers ways to try homeschooling without jumping in full-time. Above all, the book emphasizes that there is no one right way to succeed. Instead it details many paths to success -- traditional approaches, unit studies, interest-initiated learning, and eclectic approaches -- and invites you to select those options that best fit your family.


Help with teens   August 22, 2000
Karen Rackliffe (Murray, UT USA)
58 out of 60 found this review helpful

This is Just what I have been needing. Especially the chapters on "The Joy of Learning with Teens" and "Learning Assets of the Teen Years". I've needed this wake-up call to focus on the positives of the teen years instead of the negatives.

This is the best homeschool book I've read in years! Cafi manages to give a broad picture, explaning the many different routes homeschoolers take, while giving you baby steps of how to get moving in positive directions, find great curriculum, and money saving tips. She addresses the specifics of the 3R's and the Extras, addresses tailoring your school to your family's needs, keeping records and much more. I loved the fact that she writes with a national perspective. These are not just her ideas, but come from a large pool of home educators across the continent. The book is packed with resources, not an indiscriminating barage, but only the best.


Love This Book   June 8, 2000
Brenda S Livingston (Toledo, Ohio)
33 out of 35 found this review helpful

I got my copy of Homeschooling, The Teen Years and read it through immediately. It was such an encouragement. Although we have been homeschooling for more than five years, sometimes I get cold feet and fear that we are not doing enough. Cafi's book points out the many ways we educate our kids every day and gives suggestions for new things to try. I highly recommend this book to people who are considering homeschooling their teens, and especially to those who are already doing it!